Mine 14 or Mini 30?

Question

I want to get a mini 14 or mini 30 but i dont know what one the get. withch one has better accuracy and distance. i want one that will shoot pretty far and have the accuracy and distance.
help me out thanks guys

TO GET******* sorry about the spelling

Answer 1

If you are going the hunt deer with it go for the Mini 30. The ammo should be using brass cases though as stated in another post. If you are a handloader, buy a Lee Factory crimp die for 7.62X39. Using this single additional step in your reloading method will increase the accuracy of the Mini 30 buy about 50%. I believe the Mini 30 uses .308 diameter bullets not the .311 used in the standard 7.62x39 round. Accuracy with a scope will be around 2.5 inches @ 100 yards. If you are hunting coyotes and small varmints, go for the Mini 14 in .223. Accuracy will be about 1 3/4 inches @ 100 yards if using the Lee Factory crimp die. However, as prevously posted, neither of these rifles is as accurate as a bolt action in the same calibers. I would chose a Remington 700 varmint gun in the same price range-Say .22-250. If you want a 7.62x39 buy an AK or a SKS a lot cheaper than the Ruger.

Answer 2

Mini-14 sounds like your cup of tea since you're looking for accuracy.
IMHO, minis are not meant for anything past 300 yards. They have that carbine length. Which is not a bad thing. Makes for a handy ranch rifle or patrol carbine.
Remember that firearms are tools. There are specific ones for specific jobs.
If I were to get a Mini, I'd go for the 30. Ammo for the 30 is generally cheaper. 5.56/.223 ammo is killing wallets since most of the production is for the war effort. 7.62x39 cost is on the rise though.
Just figure out what role your Mini will serve then you will make the proper decision.
BTW. Ammo prices are going up possibly 5%-25% January 1st or 2008. Pick your poison people;)

Answer 3

You know I have a Mini-14 and they really aren't known for their accuracy they are relatively accurate but better for multiple shots at a closer range say, varminting. For better accuracy and distance a scoped bolt action rifle would better suit your needs. 223 is a good round but there are flatter shooting rounds out there. Look up one of the ammunition manufacturers Remington, Federal, Winchester, or Hornady and look at the ballistics for different rounds. I like my Mini-14 and I'm not trying to discourage you from buying one, just realize what's out there and make the best choice for your purpose.

Answer 4

You will get much better range with the 223 Caliber Mini 14 over the Mini 30. 7.62 X 39 caliber (Mini 30) is what's called an "intermediate" round as wasn't designed to shoot long distances. The Mini 14 in .223 caliber is the one you want definately......

Answer 5

30 rules out to 300yards 14 has it 300 and up. as far as accuracy it should depend on the load the 7.62x39 needs more credit then its given its a good round just not shot out of the right guns for accuracy.

Answer 6

I'd agree with the others, the .223 is better for both range and accuracy.

Answer 7

Mini 14

Answer 8

I would choose the Mini-30.

Answer 9

The problem with the mini 30 is most cheap 7.62X39 ammo is steel cased. Which will quickly damage the Rugers. They will work fine with brass ammo. If you are only target shooting I say 223.. I own a Mini 14 ranch it is ok but it really isnt that great in the accuracy department. If I had the 7.62 X39 I at least would have a decent 100 yard deer rifle. As the round is nearly the same as the 30/30